How to Find the Weight Difference Between Two Boxes in Pounds and Ounces

Question

Gabby sent two boxes in the mail. The first box had a weight of 4 pounds 1 ounce. The second box had a weight of 1 pound 9 ounces. What is the difference between the weights of the two boxes in pounds and ounces? Options: A) 5 lb 10 oz, B) 3 lb 8 oz, C) 2 lb 8 oz, D) 2 lb 2 oz

Accepted Answer

C) 2 lb 8 oz

Answer

Step 1: Convert the first box's weight to all ounces to avoid borrowing issues. Since 1 pound = 16 ounces, 4 pounds = 4 × 16 = 64 ounces. Add the remaining 1 ounce: 64 + 1 = 65 ounces. Step 2: Convert the second box's weight to all ounces. 1 pound = 16 ounces, so 16 + 9 = 25 ounces. Step 3: Calculate the difference in ounces: 65 - 25 = 40 ounces. Step 4: Convert 40 ounces back to pounds and ounces. Divide 40 by 16: 40 ÷ 16 = 2 pounds with a remainder of 8 ounces (since 2×16=32, 40-32=8). Alternative Step (Borrowing Method): Since 1 ounce is less than 9 ounces, borrow 1 pound (16 ounces) from the 4 pounds of the first box. The first box becomes 3 pounds 17 ounces. Subtract the second box's weight: 3 lb 17 oz - 1 lb 9 oz = 2 lb 8 oz.